An H2A liquid-fuel rocket sent an information-gathering satellite into orbit Thursday following its launch from a southwestern Japan island, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. said.
Rocket No. 49's successful mission from the space center on Tanegashima Island, Kagoshima Prefecture, followed two postponements due to unfavorable weather.
Provided by Kyodo News
The government reconnaissance satellite will monitor ground conditions from space. It will be used for national security and to assess damage following large-scale disasters.
Japan plans to launch one more H2A before the series is replaced by the next-generation H3 rocket, developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and Mitsubishi Heavy.